$3000 fine for cows with cancer eye

A Casterton man has been found guilty and fined $3000 with conviction, relating to three charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 following the detection of two cows with advanced eye cancers. The Hamilton Magistrates Court was recently told that during March 2012, Department of Primary Industries (DPI) officers received a report of a cow with a large eye cancer on a property near Casterton. DPI Regional Veterinary Officer Claire Wade said on inspection of the property the officers found two animals with large black eye lesions consistent with malignant tumour (cancer) of the eye. “The two cows were euthanized to prevent further suffering and samples of the lesions were collected and sent to a diagnostics laboratory, which confirmed both cows had cancer of the eye. “In addition to the fine, the defendant was placed on an undertaking requiring the completion of a training course to increase skills and knowledge regarding cattle husbandry,” she said. “He will also be required to regularly engage a private veterinarian and report herd health information to DPI every three months. Ms Wade said early detection, treatment or disposal of animals with eye cancers is imperative. “Cattle producers must inspect stock regularly and recognise the early stages of cancer eye, or when in doubt seek veterinary advice.” Within Victoria under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, livestock owners may face fines of up to $8,450 for each cruelty charge where eye cancers are allowed to develop.